Seed Saving – Basic Terms

Basic Terms

Heirloom:

Open-pollinated seeds are selected & saved for generations. They are rare varieties with historical, cultural or social significance. If saved correctly, they will reliably produce an adapted, but true seed annually.

Self-Pollinating:

When a plant contains both male & female parts, it can produce fruit without insects or other plants.

Cross-Pollination:

Pollen transferred from one plant’s flower to another. This is usually done with help from pollinators, and allows the plant to produce fruit, and eventually more seed.

Open Pollinated:

Plants that produce seed naturally. They will reliably produce the same plant as the parent.